Sitting in San Diego's Maderas Golf Club 10 days before camp starts, Tomlinson takes you back to the first meaningful exchange he had with Smith, in 2003. He was sitting on the team plane, headphones on, leaning away from the aisle and sulking after another loss in what would be a 4-12 season. Smith, in his rookie year as GM, approached. "I want you to know something," Smith said. "Trust me a little bit on this: I promise you, your career will not be in vain."

"Okay, I trust you," said Tomlinson ....

......

Hard-***. It's a label A.J. Smith hasn't shrunk from since earning it three years ago ....

After AJ ropes their *** and leaves his brand I can understand why agent's don't like him. After going head to head with AJ you are marked for life.

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AJ also has a good sense of the balance between what is fair to a player and what is good for the longer term health and success of the club. He doesn't short change people, but he doesn't turn over the keys to the store, either. Playing poker with this guy would be a very instructive experience, as long as the stakes weren't too high, otherwise the lesson might be a bit harsh. Agents have a hard time bluffing this guy, and so far, nobody has managed to snow him in a trade or a contract.

AJ also has a good sense of the balance between what is fair to a player and what is good for the longer term health and success of the club. He doesn't short change people, but he doesn't turn over the keys to the store, either. Playing poker with this guy would be a very instructive experience, as long as the stakes weren't too high, otherwise the lesson might be a bit harsh. Agents have a hard time bluffing this guy, and so far, nobody has managed to snow him in a trade or a contract.

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I agree, I'm also glad that AJ sticks to his plan. Play for the Chargers at what your worth or, go get that pot of gold. He is fair but he wont give in at the same time.